Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, following up on my commitment to speak on the issues related to senior citizens, I am happy to highlight a pamphlet that arrived in my Member's e-mail box this morning rather fortuitously. Mr. Speaker, that has to do with the Team NWT to the Canada Senior Games competition beginning in September of this year in Whitehorse.
Mr. Speaker, the Canada Senior Games is a national program to sponsor wellness, spiritual, mental and physical wellbeing among Canadians 50 years of age and older. Provincial and territorial programs come together annually or bi-annually in different locations across Canada. The first national games were held in Regina in 1996, the second in Medicine Hat in 1998, and the third in Summerside, PEI, in 2002. The next games are in Whitehorse.
Mr. Speaker, the event brings together amateur competitors who participate for the sheer joy of competition, for the opportunity to visit other parts of
Canada and for the camaraderie and social interactions that are integral and essential pillars to maintaining spiritual, mental and physical wellbeing.
The NWT Seniors' Society, now celebrating 21 years in the Northwest Territories, are managing and sponsoring Team NWT. Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that our very own Paul Delorey is a member of the senior team.
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I can assure you that I am not yet. Mr. Speaker, along with the support of corporate and individual donations, Team NWT is seeking the support of the government at all levels. There will be approximately 35 competitors. In addition, many non-participants will be cheering NWT on as they compete for our territory. Many volunteers from communities in Fort Simpson, Hay River, Fort Smith and Yellowknife have accumulated hours of work in fundraising campaigns and presentations to get their communities throughout the North represented on the team. Mr. Speaker, the NWT Seniors' Society believes that by investing in this endeavour, governments will save money. They really know how to make a good argument, Mr. Speaker. May I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement? Thank you.